Engineering Department Manager

Job description:

Engineering Department Manager

Location: California (Regional Search to draw talent for niche skill set role)

Compensation: $220,000 Base Salary (Commensurate with experience)

Reports To: Senior Vice President of Engineering

The Opportunity

We are seeking a high-caliber Engineering Department Manager to lead a multidisciplinary team of approximately 12 engineers. This is a critical leadership role responsible for bridging the gap between high-level executive strategy and technical execution. You will oversee a robust portfolio of Capital Improvement Projects (CIP), manage a sophisticated spare parts inventory system, and ensure fiscal responsibility through meticulous project budgeting.

The ideal candidate is a seasoned leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment and possesses the technical gravitas to mentor senior engineers while managing complex external vendor relationships.

Key Responsibilities

• Team Leadership: Directly supervise, mentor, and develop a team of 12 engineers. Drive a culture of technical excellence, accountability, and continuous professional growth.
• Project Management: Oversee the full lifecycle of Capital Improvement Projects (CIP), ensuring they are delivered on time, within scope, and aligned with long-term facility goals.
• Financial Stewardship: Take full ownership of engineering project budgeting. Track expenditures, forecast future needs, and optimize resource allocation to maximize ROI.
• Asset Management: Manage major spare parts procurement and inventory strategies to minimize downtime and ensure operational continuity.
• Vendor Relations: Serve as the primary point of contact for outside vendors, managing contract negotiations, performance standards, and specialized outsourced services.
• Strategic Reporting: Provide regular technical and financial updates to the SVP of Engineering, translating complex engineering data into actionable executive insights.

Qualifications

• Experience: Minimum of 8–10 years of progressive engineering experience, with at least 3–5 years in a formal management or supervisory role.
• Must have PVC profile extrusion experience. Fence, rail, deck, pipe, etc.
• Technical Proficiency: Proven track record in managing large-scale industrial or infrastructure CIP projects.
• Business Acumen: Strong experience in budgetary management and financial forecasting within an engineering context.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, or related field) is required; an MBA or PMP certification is a significant plus.
• Soft Skills: Exceptional communication skills with the ability to influence both direct reports and executive leadership.

Benefits & Compensation

• Base Salary: $220,000 base, with upward flexibility for candidates with extensive industry-specific experience.
• Comprehensive California-compliant benefits package (Health, Dental, Vision, 401k Match).
• Relocation assistance available for the right candidate

*** Regional search - role is located near LA ***